NEW CUMBERLAND, Pennsylvania –
Teammates,
It’s hard to believe that I’ve been your Commander for an entire year. It seems like yesterday that the DLA Director placed the guidon in my hands charging me with the responsibility of this GREAT organization. Since that day, Cynthia, Chandler, Charlie and I have truly been blessed and have enjoyed being a part of this global Distribution family.
I recently attended the Army Strategic Leader Development Program and during this class, we were tasked with keeping a gratitude diary for a period of 30 days. Each of those days, we are to express three things for which we are grateful. I can’t think of a better way to conclude this effort than by sharing with all of you what I am grateful for this upcoming Memorial Day.
#1. I am grateful for the distribution family located around the globe that always places the Warfighter first. Without all of you, our military forces and valued customers would not be fully equipped to perform their critical missions day to day. You are the Department of Defense's elite team of professionals. Thank you for all you do!
#2. I am grateful for our military and civilians deployed around the world defending the freedoms that we enjoy. Team, I’ve been at the pointy end of the spear; I know what they endure. I know what their families go through in their absence while they so proudly serve our country. I’m so proud of each and every one of them and I'm thankful for their selfless service.
#3. I am grateful for a country that allows us to honor the men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Memorial Day gives us an opportunity to remember those heroes whether it is by visiting cemeteries or memorials, attending or participating in parades or flying our Nation’s colors in front of our homes.
I encourage each of you, my Distribution family, to enjoy this holiday weekend with family and friends, to relax and recharge your batteries, but most importantly, to take time to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great nation.
Have a great weekend!
HOOAH!